Q:Maybe we are lucky but I am not so
sure.My wife and I have beenmarried 10 years, and we seem to get
along OK – no big fights.But it seems
the spark is gone; neither of us seems particularly passionate.Is this standard or can we so something to
light the old flame?

A:The
fact that you are interested in developing more intimacy is a sign that your
relationship has the potential to grow at this time.No relationship is born ideal – it grows.

To evaluate the strengths and areas to
work on in your relationship consider the following areas of intimacy to see
where you and your wife might want to make some changes.

1.Emotional Intimacy:Is there a closeness of feeling and an ability to share openly in a
non-defensive atmosphere where there is support, understanding, and trust?

2.Social Intimacy:Do you have friends in common and a similar social network?

5.Recreational Intimacy:Do you and your spouse share interests in leisure activities either
active or passive?

Awareness is 90 percent of the
solution.The fact that you are aware
that some changes need to take place to renew your relationship is a big first
step.Hopefully the above questions will
give you some hints as to where to begin focusing your efforts.